The department released a lengthy statement to residents, apologizing for the incident.
NEW FAIRVIEW, Texas — A North Texas fire chief has been arrested for allegedly stealing between $150,000 and $300,000 from a volunteer fire department, authorities said.
The alleged theft came to light after a member of New Fairview Fire Rescue noticed discrepancies in the department’s bank accounts, the department said in a news release. The irregularities were reported to authorities, prompting an investigation.
Arne Wissmann, the department’s fire chief, was arrested and booked into the Wise County Jail on Jan. 8, according to the Wise County Sheriff’s Office. Jail records show Wissmann was released after posting a $50,000 bond.
The city of New Fairview, which has had a fire protection contract with the volunteer department since 2022, confirmed the recent arrest in a statement but clarified that no city funds were involved in the alleged theft.
“The City Administrator has met with the leadership of NFFR and has been assured that fire protection service to New Fairview businesses and residents will continue without interruption,” the city said in a press release. “The City will continue to work with the NFFR leadership as they regroup and move forward.”
The department acknowledged possible public distrust following the incident but described it as a learning opportunity to foster growth and improvement.
“I want to reassure you that our department is composed of volunteers who are united by a shared commitment to protecting lives and property,” NFFR said in a statement. “We are not, and will never be, influenced by the actions of a single individual. We remain steadfast in our dedication to serving our community with integrity, professionalism, and compassion.”
Christy Jack, the defense attorney for Wissman, released the following statement:
“It’s very early in the process. We were retained today and are beginning our own investigation into the allegations. We would ask the public to withhold judgment.”